Crane game with prize redistribution mechanism
OwnerStephen P. Shoemaker, Jr.inventor
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Abstract
The invention relates to an amusement device such as a crane game of the kind including a plurality of prizes in a collection bin for withdrawal, the crane game including a floor upon which the prizes rest that can be vertically shifted as prizes are withdrawn to maintain the appearance of a full prize bin. The floor shifting mechanism comprises a motor coupled to an endless belt or chain that drives one or more threaded members to control the movement of the floor in the vertical direction. The invention may include a vibrator for imparting an oscillation to the prizes that redistributes the prizes toward a more level arrangement to place more prizes within the game's participation.
Claims14
A crane game amusement device comprising:
- a bin for storing a plurality of prizes, said bin including transparent panes for viewing the prizes from outside the bin and a floor panel for supporting the plurality of prizes;
- a prize retrieval system for extracting a prize from above, said prize retrieval system including a crane operable by a user to pick up a prize and remove the prize from the bin;
- user input means for controlling the prize retrieval system;
- and
- floor panel translation means for moving the floor panel vertically within the bin.
An improved amusement device having a plurality of prizes in a bin and a crane for extracting the prizes, the improvement comprising:
- a floor panel vertically movable within the bin, said plurality of prizes supported by the floor panel;
- a drive system for lifting the floor panel as prizes are withdrawn from the bin.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.